Yesterday morning, the Jewish community gathered together with members from across society for a deeply moving rally and vigil to commemorate the victims of October 7th and to stand united following the terrorist attack against the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation.

The event brough together people of all backgrounds – united in grief, compassion, and determination to remember the atrocities committed on October 7th and reject hatred in all its forms.

Speakers included: Raphi Bloom; Deputy Israel Foreign Minister, Sharon Haskell; Israel Ambassador Daniela Grudsky Ekstein; chair of the JRC, Mark Adlestone; Rob Moss, the uncle of Emily Damari; Christian Wakeford MP; Robert Largan and Carmel Berke.

Each shared powerful messages of remembrance, resilience and hope, reminding everyone of the importance of standing together in the face of darkness.

The gathering was a profound demonstration of unity and strength – a moment to honour the memory of those lost, to comfort one another, and to reaffirm our shared commitment to peace, tolerance and the safety of all communities. We prayed for the safety of the IDF and called for the immediate and unconditional release of all the hostages.

Thank you to everyone who attended, spoke, volunteered and supported this important moment of reflection. Your presence and solidarity mean more than words can express.

Together, we remember. Together, we stand. Together, we will never forget.

We remain defiant as proud British Jews and will not be defeated.